Eviction threat fails to deter bogcutters
OPPONENTS of a controversial ban on turfcutting on Moanveanlagh bog near Listowel have reaffirmed their intention to keep cutting turf in an escalation of the protest, after each received eviction notices before Christmas.
They are now to hold a public meeting this Friday night on the matter in Listowel, January 20,
The Listowel branch of the Kerry Turfcutters’ and Contractors’ Association (KTCA) is to meet at the Mermaids in Listowel at 9pm, to discuss how they will proceed with their fight against the EU directive.
A spokesperson for the group concerned said this week that eviction notices were served on the land owners recently and that Friday night’s meeting is being organised to discuss their next move. He said that the bog cutters in question — who previously pledged to go to jail rather than accept compensation for the loss of the ageold practice — have sought legal advice and will fight the proposed plans to the end.
Turfcutters on Moanveanlagh see the practice as an age- old custom handed down by their forefathers that in no way threatens the flora and fauna of the bog. Only a handful of families continue to cut turf on Moanveanlagh — the only bog in Kerry on which turf is cut that is currently facing the ban as it is raised.
Turfcutter Denis Scannell explained that Friday night’s meeting will also discuss the outcome of a recent meeting with Arts Minister Jimmy Deenihan, who claims that the EU is insisting on the ban.
Just last month, Minister Deenihan proposed a new form of compensation for the turfcutters, offering 10 tonnes of turf per year per household affected. They will also have the option of cutting on bog not affected by the nationwide ban, or they can take a compensation package of €1,000 per year.
However, turfcutters in Moanveanlagh say the issue is not simply about getting fuel, but is about their heritage.
“It’s not just about the fuel at all. The option of 10 tonnes is just not a runner for us. This is about our heritage, our satisfaction and a way of life for us in all,” the group told The Kerryman.